22Nov

What is a Senior Center?

Senior Community Services remains dedicated to keeping older adults connected to their communities. One of the strongest ways we’re able to do this, is through our Senior Centers.

Senior centers are an amazing asset to any community. They are a place where older adults can access a multitude of resources, stay socially engaged, and remain connected to the community. They focus on community seniors who are so often forgotten. Senior Centers make a significant difference in the quality of life for thousands of local participants every year. And a real difference for their adult children, who often don’t live locally. For many participants, their centers are the only way they really continue to build relationships with others.

Arlen, a frequent participant at the Monticello Senior Center for the last 6 years says, “The comradery with others is another reason I come to the senior center. It’s a nice place to come and the people are great.  It gives me something to do and I am here 5-6 days a week.”

Centers offer a very wide variety of programs and services, meeting the needs and interests, of a diverse range of retired people. Senior Centers are committed to providing these services for older adults to support their independence and well-being, enhance their dignity, and promote their participation in the community.

Senior Community Services partners with 4 Senior Centers:

 

The Gillespie Center’s construction was completely funded by members of the Westonka community, and it has been well-loved ever since. The Center is located in a beautiful building sitting adjacent to a wetland overlooking Lake Minnetonka in the city of Mound. This year, The Gillespie Center celebrated its 20th Anniversary of being a cornerstone for many seniors in the community.

 

 

The Monticello Senior Center, located within the Monticello Community Center, is a multi-purpose facility providing a wide variety of programs, activities, and services for people age 55+ and their families. It is the second oldest senior center in Minnesota and has been city supported since day one. Many, many lasting friendships have been formed within the center walls and more are built every year.

 

 

The Minnetonka Senior Center’s mission has always been to develop and promote programs and services in the community to meet the diverse needs of those 55 and older. The center is located within the city’s community center and offers a variety of programs and recreational opportunities, such as interest groups, fitness, art and history classes, special events, presentations, monthly parties and more.

 

 

Located in St. Michael within the City Center Building, the Crow River Senior Center is for anyone that is interested in a vibrant and dynamic experience with a growing group of fantastic people that have served as the builders of the Albertville, Hanover, St. Michael, and surrounding areas senior center.

 

All of these Senior Centers can be further explored on their shared website www.mnseniorcenters.org. Be sure to check out their virtual programs tab as well to see virtual events, crafts, activities and more! We take a lot of pride in our Senior Centers and the amazing work they have been doing for the older adults in their communities.

Sharon has been going to the Monticello Senior Center for almost three years. Sharon said, “Coming to the senior center gives me an opportunity to meet and associate with people. It gives me an out – it truly is my second home! I love coming to the center! I participate in a number of activities, and the people are so nice.”